GALVANIZED STEEL

Galvanized steel is a widely used material in many industries. But what is galvanized steel, how does it differ from ungalvanized steel, and what are the different types of steel galvanization?

WHAT IS GALVANIZED STEEL?

The use of steel in general has many advantages. For example, steel can be used in many situations and is known for its strength. However, it also has disadvantages. For instance, steel can rust over time, which affects the quality and appearance of the steel object. To counteract this, steel can be galvanized. This involves applying a thin layer of zinc to the steel in a chemical process. This protective layer ensures that the steel rusts less easily, extending the lifespan of the material. In addition, the surface is less susceptible to scratches due to galvanization, which is why many people find galvanized steel more attractive than ungalvanized steel.

TYPES OF STEEL GALVANIZATION

When steel comes into contact with molten zinc, a chemical reaction occurs in which the zinc adheres to the steel surface. Over the years, various methods have been developed to initiate this galvanization process. The most commonly used method is hot-dip galvanizing. In this process, the steel is immersed in molten zinc at a temperature of about 460 degrees Celsius, which causes the aforementioned chemical reaction to take place and the protective zinc layer to adhere to the steel surface. Other common methods for galvanizing steel include:

• Electrogalvanizing: In this process, the steel is placed in a zinc solution and then an electric current is passed through it. This creates a relatively thin, but very strong and uniform galvanizing layer.
• Mechanical Galvanizing: The steel is mixed with zinc powder and a special galvanizing agent in a drum. As the various materials come into contact during this process, a thin layer forms on the steel.
• Spraying: In this process, the zinc is passed through a spray gun, where it liquefies. The liquid zinc can then be applied to the steel with the spray gun, provided it has been thoroughly cleaned beforehand.
• Sherardizing: The steel is heated to about 400 degrees Celsius together with a zinc powder. The diffusion process that is initiated between the zinc and the steel ensures that a uniform zinc layer is applied to the steel.

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